Prepare to be captivated by a thought-provoking exhibition that dares to ask: What does it mean to die well?
In a heartwarming initiative, the Ottawa Art Gallery (OAG) presents “The Art of a Good Death”, a unique showcase that brings together art, film, and an interactive experience to explore the delicate topic of palliative care. Led by the visionary Sarina Isenberg, a researcher with a dual passion for science and art, this exhibition aims to spark meaningful conversations and challenge our perceptions.
Imagine a ghost town in the Kootenays, where Aimee-Rose Philibert, an artist with a unique studio in her driveway, paints amidst her five loyal dogs. Her work, “Vent de Melisse”, is a poignant reminder of a close friend’s journey with Huntington’s disease and her choice for a medically assisted death. Philibert’s painting, with its cool neutral tones, captures the complex emotions of joy and heartbreak, and it is just one of the powerful pieces in this exhibition.
But here’s where it gets controversial—Isenberg and her team invited artists from across Canada to interpret the research on what constitutes a good death. The results are thought-provoking, ranging from literal to abstract interpretations of physical comfort, emotional peace, connection, autonomy, and dignity. By taking this research out of academic circles and into the public realm, Isenberg aims to bridge the gap and establish a common understanding of humanity.
Over 100 submissions poured in, and the jury, comprising curators, scientists, healthcare providers, and caregivers, had the challenging task of selecting just six artworks. These pieces include a coffin-shaped sculpture, a graphic novel, film stills, and even a bouquet of flowers and medical devices, each offering a unique perspective on death.
And this is the part most people miss—the exhibition also features an interactive element. Visitors are invited to share their thoughts on how they’d like to die, and these contributions will be represented on a sapling, which will eventually grow into a full tree, symbolizing the collective survey findings.
Alexandra Badzak, the director and CEO of OAG, believes in the power of art to bridge the gap between art and health. She highlights the ability of artists to make complex topics accessible, as seen in Jennifer Kershaw’s artwork, “In Excelsis Doughnut”, a playful take on the hymn “Gloria in Excelsis Deo”, inspired by the food requests of those facing their final days.
The six selected works offer diverse perspectives on a good death, but they all share a common goal: to make death more approachable. As Isenberg puts it, “It provides a softer opening for a conversation that can otherwise be jarring.”
So, what does a good death mean to you? Don’t miss this thought-provoking exhibition, running until January 11th at the Ottawa Art Gallery. It’s a chance to reflect, connect, and perhaps even find comfort in the beauty of art.
And remember, as Philibert wisely advises, “Love your homies. Don’t miss showing your loved ones how much you care.”
Will you join the conversation? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!